Current affairs

Alpine Musk Deer: Habitat, Distribution, Threats and Conservation Status

The Alpine Musk Deer (Moschus chrysogaster) is an endangered mammal native to the mountainous regions of Asia. It inhabits high-altitude Himalayan forests and is threatened by poaching for its valuable musk, habitat degradation and other human activities. According to a...

International Day of Rural Women 2026: Date, Theme, Significance and Importance

The International Day of Rural Women 2026 is observed on 15 October to recognise the contribution of rural women to agriculture, food security, rural livelihoods and sustainable development. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, the day highlights...

Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs): Balancing Climate Action, Public Health and Food Security

Context Short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), including methane, black carbon, tropospheric ozone and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), contribute significantly to near-term global warming and air pollution. Unlike carbon dioxide (CO₂), many SLCPs remain in the atmosphere for relatively short periods, making their reduction...

Warming Himalayas: Causes, Impacts and Way Forward

The Himalayas are vital for India's water security, biodiversity, livelihoods and strategic connectivity. However, rising temperatures, glacier retreat, permafrost thaw and unplanned infrastructure development are increasing the vulnerability of this fragile mountain ecosystem. Himalayan warming demands a shift towards climate-resilient...

Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences 2026: Winners and Key Contributions

Context The 2026 Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel was jointly awarded to American economists Robert E. Hall and Michael Woodford, according to the supplied source. About the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences 2026 Established:...

Appointment of Deputy Election Commissioners in ECI: Roles and Functions

Context The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) appointed Prakash Rajpurohit, a 2010-batch Rajasthan-cadre IAS officer, as Deputy Election Commissioner (DEC) until 8 April 2030. About Deputy Election Commissioners Role: Senior civil servants who assist the Election Commission of India...

UAPA Act 1967: Key Provisions, Supreme Court Judgments and Challenges

Context The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967 is India's principal anti-terrorism law, aimed at protecting national sovereignty and combating terrorism. However, restrictive bail provisions and prolonged pre-trial detention raise concerns about personal liberty under Article 21 and freedom of...

International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2026: Theme and Key Facts

The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) 2026 is observed on 13 October 2026 to promote disaster prevention, preparedness and resilience. The theme for 2026 is “Resilience Starts at Home,” emphasizing safe housing, effective early warning systems and community...

Sarus Crane: Habitat, Features, Conservation Statu

Context The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) announced an All-India Sarus Crane Survey to estimate the bird’s population, identify key breeding and roosting sites, and assess threats such as collisions with power lines. About the Sarus Crane Significance: The world’s...

PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY): Objectives, Features and 100 Districts

Context The PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) completed its first year on 11 October 2026, with improvements in composite performance scores across 100 Aspirational Agricultural Districts. About PMDDKY Objective: To improve agricultural productivity and farmers’ incomes in underperforming agricultural districts....